Burial vs. Cremation: Which Is Right for Your Family?

When planning final arrangements, families across Oak Harbor, Anacortes, Bellingham, and Blaine often ask whether to choose burial or cremation. Each has unique traditions, costs, and personal meanings.

Key Differences at a Glance

Aspect	Burial	Cremation
Cost	Higher (cemetery, casket, vault)	Lower (direct cremation is most affordable)
Tradition	Permanent gravesite for visitation	Flexible memorial timing & location
Environmental	Uses land/materials, embalming	Generally less resource-intensive
Flexibility	Service typically soon after passing	Memorial may be held before/after cremation

Burial in Northwest Washington

Cemeteries in Oak Harbor, Anacortes, Bellingham provide plots and mausoleums.
Families value a permanent resting place and traditional services.

Cremation in Northwest Washington

Popular across Island, Skagit, Whatcom, and San Juan Counties.
Allows unique memorials: sea scatterings, celebrations of life, keepsake urns.

How to Decide

Tradition/values, budget, flexibility, and family preferences.

Speak With a Funeral Director We’ll walk through your options together

FAQs

Is cremation always less expensive than burial?

Generally yes. Cremation eliminates cemetery and casket costs, though families may still add memorial options.

Can we combine cremation and burial?

Yes. Many families choose cremation and then bury ashes in a cemetery plot or columbarium niche.

Which is more environmentally friendly?

Cremation avoids land use and materials. Green burial options can also reduce the environmental impact of burial.

Does cremation limit memorial options?

No. Families can hold viewings, religious services, celebrations of life, sea scatterings, or bury ashes in a family plot.